CBN Appoints 8 Directors to Keystone Bank Board

CBN Appoints New Keystone Bank Leadership

“We are pleased to welcome the new chairman, non-executive directors, and executive directors...”

Keystone Bank appoints new chairman, non-executive and executive directors, marking a new era of growth and innovation.

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has announced significant changes to Keystone Bank's leadership. Lady Ada Chukwudozie has been appointed as the new chairman of the board, joined by five new non-executive directors: Abdul-Rahman Esene, Fola Akande, Akintola Ayodeji Olusoji, Obijiaku Samuel, and Senator Farouk Bello. Each of these individuals brings a wealth of experience from various sectors of the economy.

In addition to the non-executive directors, the CBN has also appointed two new executive directors: Ladi Oluwole and Abubakar Usman Bello. Ladi Oluwole will serve as Executive Director of Risk Management, leveraging his extensive background in credit and enterprise risk management, gained from working with major international institutions like the Bank of America. This move aims to strengthen Keystone Bank's leadership team and drive sustained growth.

New Keystone Bank Leadership:

Chairman: Lady Ada Chukwudozie

Non-Executive Directors:

Abdul-Rahman Esene

Fola Akande

Akintola Ayodeji Olusoji

Obijiaku Samuel

Senator Farouk Bello

 Executive Directors:

Ladi Oluwole (Executive Director of Risk Management)

Abubakar Usman Bello

Senator Farouk Bello has taken on the role of Executive Director for Keystone Bank's Northern Directorate, bringing his extensive experience in managing corporate, retail, and public sector clients to the table.

Lady Ada Chukwudozie, Keystone Bank's newly appointed chairman, is a highly respected figure in Nigeria's corporate world. With nearly 30 years of experience under her belt, she has developed exceptional expertise in business strategy, management, and administration. Her impressive leadership portfolio spans multiple industries, including:

De-Endy Industrial Company Limited: Where she played a key role in shaping the company's growth strategy.

The Dozzy Group: A conglomerate founded by Sir Daniel N. Chukwudozie, where she serves as Executive Director.

The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria: Where she contributed to the development of the manufacturing sector.

Chukwudozie's influence extends beyond the business world, as she also serves on the editorial board of Vogue Afrique Magazine, showcasing her versatility and deep involvement in diverse industries. Her appointment as chairman is expected to bring valuable insights and direction to Keystone Bank.

Abdul-Rahman Esene joins Keystone Bank's board with an impressive 40-year career in banking, investment management, and corporate finance. His extensive experience includes:

Leadership roles at Fidelity Bank: Where he drove strategic growth initiatives.

Afrinvest: A leading investment firm where he oversaw significant transactions.

Global Arbitrage International Inc.: A global financial services company where he played a key role in shaping investment strategies.

Throughout his distinguished career, Esene has demonstrated exceptional expertise in:

• Financial strategy development
• Investment management
• Corporate finance advisory
• Leadership and governance

His wealth of knowledge and experience will undoubtedly enhance Keystone Bank's decision-making processes and contribute to its continued success.

Keystone Bank's MD/CEO, Hassan Imam, welcomed the new leadership team, citing their collective expertise as vital for navigating the evolving economic landscape. Their contributions will enhance the bank's ability to seize opportunities, maintain strong governance, and deliver exceptional customer experiences.

Senator Farouk Bello brings over two decades of experience in both the public and private sectors to Keystone Bank, solidifying the bank's leadership team. His impressive background includes spearheading major initiatives at the National Assembly and Guaranty Trust Bank, where he played a pivotal role in shaping policy-making and financial reform in Nigeria.

Keystone Bank's Managing Director and CEO, Hassan Imam, warmly welcomed the new board members, expressing his optimism about their contributions to the bank's continued growth and repositioning. With a wealth of experience in banking, Imam himself has held key executive positions at Fidelity Bank and has expertise in commercial banking, consumer banking, SME banking, risk management, trade finance, and transaction banking. Under his leadership, Keystone Bank is poised for sustained success.

New Non-Executive Directors:

Fola Akande: 25+ years of experience in legal, compliance, and risk management

Worked with global companies: Cadbury, Stanbic Chartered Bank, Shell

Akintola Ayodeji Olusoji: 30-year career in accounting, finance, business development

Leadership positions: Sterling Bank, Access Bank, Intercontinental Bank

Expertise in financial management, driving growth and operational efficiency

“We are pleased to welcome the new chairman, non-executive directors, and executive directors to the board of Keystone Bank.

“We are confident that their extensive experience will be invaluable as we continue to reposition the bank to seize emerging economic opportunities while maintaining strong corporate governance and providing our customers with a secure and reliable banking experience,” Imam remarked.

Keystone Bank is set to enter a transformative phase of expansion, innovation, and resilience, leveraging the expertise of its newly constituted board to thrive in Nigeria's dynamic financial ecosystem.